From Snippet to Carpet: Propagating the Charming Oplismenus Burmanni
Want a low-maintenance, vibrant groundcover that adds a touch of tropical flair to your garden? Look no further than Oplismenus burmanni, also known as the “creeping woodsorrel” or “carpet grass.” This charming plant boasts stunning variegated foliage, making it a perfect choice for adding texture and interest to shady spots. But did you know you can easily expand your carpet of Oplismenus burmanni from just a few sprigs?
Here’s a guide to propagating this easy-going beauty:
1. The Art of Division
a. Timing is Key: Spring or early summer are ideal for dividing Oplismenus burmanni. After the plant has had a chance to establish itself, it will be more resilient to the disturbance.
b. Carefully Extract: Gently dig around the base of your plant, making sure to loosen the soil without damaging the roots.
c. Divide and Conquer: Using a sharp knife or your hands, separate the plant into smaller clumps, each with a good amount of roots and foliage.
d. Planting the New Starts: Plant each division in a well-prepared pot or directly into your garden bed. Ensure the foliage is above the soil line and water generously.
2. The Power of Stem Cuttings
a. Select Healthy Growth: Choose a sturdy, non-flowering stem from your Oplismenus burmanni.
b. Prepare the Cut: Cut the stem just below a leaf node (where a leaf emerges from the stem). Remove any leaves below the soil line.
c. Root Medium: You can root cuttings directly in the ground, but using a mix of perlite and peat moss is often more successful, allowing for better drainage and aeration.
d. Planting and Care: Insert the cutting into the rooting medium, ensuring the node is covered with soil. Mist regularly and place cuttings in a bright, indirect location.
e. Patience is a Virtue: Root development usually takes a few weeks. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
3. Tips for Success
- Sunlight: Oplismenus burmanni thrives in shady or semi-shade conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate foliage.
- Moist Soil: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the early stages of growth.
- Fertilize Regularly: Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season to promote lush foliage.
- Embrace the Spread: Oplismenus burmanni is a vigorous grower and will quickly create a lovely, carpet-like effect. You can contain it by planting it in containers, or simply trim back any stray growth.
Conclusion
With a bit of effort and patience, you can easily propagate Oplismenus burmanni from scratch. Whether you divide existing plants or root cuttings, you’ll soon enjoy the joy of witnessing the vibrant carpet of foliage spread across your garden. So, why wait? Get your hands dirty and let the beauty of Oplismenus burmanni flourish in your landscape!